Cats vs. Mavs: Televised Halloween showdown kicks off at 7

Thursday

Oct 31, 2013 at 6:56 PM

The Oak Ridge High School football team (7-2 overall, 6-1 District 3-AAA) returns to action tonight — Halloween Night — at home on Blankenship Field, as they face a tough competitor in visiting Anderson County High School (8-1 overall, 6-1 District 3-AAA).

Keith Hyatt and Brad Pope/Special to The Oak Ridger

The Oak Ridge High School football team (7-2 overall, 6-1 District 3-AAA) returns to action tonight — Halloween Night — at home on Blankenship Field, as they face a tough competitor in visiting Anderson County High School (8-1 overall, 6-1 District 3-AAA).

In addition to this game being held on an earlier night, kickoff for this “Rivalry Thursday” game will begin at 7 p.m. and be televised on MyVLT2.

The Mavericks have been putting points up in bunches and, with a win, they would win the District outright since they defeated District leader Campbell County. Oak Ridge, on the other hand, needs a win over Anderson County and has to have Powell defeat Campbell County in order to win the District.

The Wildcats defeated Knoxville Central 24-13 last Friday at Fountain City. After relying on the offense to put up big numbers for much of the season, the Oak Ridge defense has stepped up late in the season; the Wildcats shut out Powell in the second half the week before last and they forced four turnovers on downs against Central.

“We’re a young team,” Oak Ridge coach Joe Gaddis said after the Central win. “Our defense is playing better now because we have nine games under our belt.

“The defense has played better against Powell and Central than they did against other teams earlier in the season. We’re a little more mature now, we’re a little older now, and we’re a little more experienced now. I think that’s the difference.”

Prior to tonight’s ball game, the Oak Ridge community is invited to enjoy Halloween activities at Blankenship Field. The Wildcat Football Boosters, along with the Oak Ridge Quarterback Club, the Boys Club Alumni Association and other partners will host a Trunk-or-Treat event from 5 to 6:30 p.m. in the upper parking lot.

This free event will include treats, decorations, games and a Bounce House; children are encouraged to come dressed in their Halloween costume.